Become the authority of your own body. Recognize changes early. This may save your life, and will certainly give you the opportunity to incorporate natural therapies and an integrative approach to your health care.

No physician can monitor your body on a daily basis. Being in touch with and aware of subtle but persistent changes in your health -- and taking action by seeking professional care to either rule out or identify a problem -- may save your life.

If you live with a chronic illness, only you are capable of making the wisest choice possible based on many factors. If you love someone with an illness, be cautious in sharing your opinion about his or her decisions.